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Feline Chlamydophilosis in Cats

Caused by the bacterium
Chlamydophila felis, Feline chlamydophilosis is considered a relatively
severe disease. The main health implication following infection from this is
conjunctivitis. It is very rare for this bacterium to infect other species
since it is highly adapted to using cats as a host and human chlamydia is
caused by a different, albeit similar, pathogen. The bacteria are
intracellular which means they are found inside the cells of the hostís
tissues, in this case those of the cat. It enters and reproduces in the
lining of the eye lids where it causes high levels of damage to the cells
and is able to travel to other areas of the body where epithelial cells are
found. Kittens are more susceptible as they have an underdeveloped immune
system although cats at any age can become infected with the bacteria.
Vaccines can be given as a preventative measure against this disease which
can prevent infection or result in any infection which may occur being much
milder in its effects.

Transmission

Transmission occurs via direct
contact between the cats or the infected ocular discharge. Kittens are able
to catch the disease during the process of their mother giving birth and so
care should be taken with infected and pregnant queens.

This disease is more commonly
seen in areas of overcrowding and stress such as multi-cat households and
boarding catteries. Animal shelters are considered stressful environments
and this can also spread the disease amongst the cats within them.
Fortunately, the bacteria do not survive very long outside the host and so
transmission from the surrounding environment is not seen as a large risk.
It is rare for transmission to occur via infected objects such as food
bowls. However, most disinfectants on inanimate surfaces can be used to
destroy the bacteria.

Symptoms

Conjunctivitis can be observed
in the form of different levels of severity as well as sneezing and nasal
discharge. Concerning the conjunctivitis, the symptoms begin with ocular
discharge and one or both eyes may become partially closed. The discharge
progresses from a watery to a more yellow and viscous substance. In
addition, redness and swelling will be observed around the lining of the
eyelids. Fever may develop and as a result, lethargy and a lack of appetite.
Feline chlamydophilosis is more commonly seen in kittens ranging from five
to twelve weeks of age.

Treatment and Prevention

Eye drops are administered and
a wide range of antibiotics may be used. Medicine can also be applied
orally. To prevent further transmission, all the cats should be treated
within the household regardless of whether they show any signs or symptoms.
Additionally, hands should be thoroughly washed, when treating an infected
cat.

Vaccination is recommended
and, although it may not completely prevent infection, the disease is much
milder as opposed to how it would be in unvaccinated cats. Kittens should be
vaccinated twice between nine and twelve weeks of age. To provide long term
protection against feline chlamydophilosis, annual boosters are highly
recommended.

Diagnosis and Prognosis

The disease can be diagnosed
by obtaining swabs around the eyes and isolating the bacteria. Cultures are
then grown and identified. The prognosis, if caught in time, is usually good
though kittens may have reoccurring infections throughout their life. It has
been seen that some kittens develop pneumonia after contracting the disease.

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